So It Grows: Kurt Vonnegut Museum Looks for Support in Relocation Effort

Residents and visitors of Indianapolis may have noticed something amiss during the last few months: the beloved Kurt Vonnegut Museum & Library has been closed. But, luckily, it’s only temporary.

While the lease on the museum’s current location on Senate Avenue expired on February 1, they have recently signed a purchase agreement for a new location in the heart of Indy’s historic jazz district. That’s where they need the public’s help. In order to secure the building, the museum needs to raise $1.5 million by May 15. Funds will allow the museum to purchase the building and begin renovations.

The Vonnegut Museum & Library celebrates the late author’s contributions to writing, art, and education. Visitors to the museum are able to see Vonnegut’s writing, drawings, personal typewriter, and other intimate belongings. Writers, especially, will appreciate being able to read through Vonnegut’s rejection letters and type away on the same model typewriter that he used.

Looking toward the future, the museum hopes to partner with local restaurant Bluebeard to set up a café for visitors to enjoy. The new building will also include larger gallery space and gift shop, a classroom and gathering space, new exhibitions, and expanded arts and humanities programming.

As of this writing, the museum needs just $316,000 more to reach its $1,500,000 goal. The Kurt Vonnegut Museum & Library welcomes donations of all shapes and sizes. But for those thinking big, there are still naming opportunities for rooms and exhibitions!